By: Emmett Kirst

Some knives you buy because you need them. Others you own because they tell a story. The Tekto A7 Zastava OTF is one of those rare blades that does both—it’s a fully functional, modern out-the-front knife, but it’s also a tangible tribute to one of the most iconic rifles ever made, the Zastava M70.

From the titanium-coated S35VN steel blade to the Serbian Red Wood inlays, every detail carries both purpose and personality. It’s a knife that doesn’t just perform—it speaks.

A Knife with a War Hero’s Bloodline
Tekto Knives didn’t create the A7 Zastava out of thin air. They looked to history—to the rugged, battle-tested M70 rifle—and decided to carry that heritage into the palm of your hand. The result is a blade that’s modern in its mechanics, but unmistakably nostalgic in its soul.

This is more than just inspiration; it’s design language borrowed directly from a legend. The M70’s wood stock is mirrored here in naturally grained Serbian Red Wood handle inlays, framed by lightweight 6061-T6 aluminum. No two knives are identical, thanks to the unique variations in every piece of wood.

It’s the kind of detail that makes each A7 Zastava one of one.

Meet the Tekto A7 Zastava OTF Knife—where the legendary heritage of Zastava Arms meets Tekto’s precision engineering. Modeled after the iconic M70 rifle, it honors a design that has remained timeless for generations. Its titanium-coated S35VN steel blade, available in spear or dagger point, offers uncompromising strength for every mission. With Serbian Red Wood inlays echoing the rifle’s classic look, each knife becomes a unique work of art, no two ever the same.

Quick Specs
• Handle Material: 6061-T6 Aluminum with Serbian Red Wood inlays
• Blade Material: Titanium-Coated S35VN Stainless Steel
• Blade Hardness: 58–61 HRC
• Blade Style: Spear Point (dagger style available)
• Locking Mechanism: Button Lock

Blade Excellence: S35VN Steel in Action
If you’ve been around knives long enough, you know S35VN steel is no ordinary choice. It’s a premium stainless steel formulated for edge retention, toughness, and corrosion resistance. Tekto’s decision to coat it with titanium takes things up a notch—protecting the blade from scratches, wear, and environmental damage while giving it a tactical, low-glare finish.

At 58–61 HRC, this blade has the perfect balance of hardness for holding a razor edge without being brittle. Whether you’re cutting cord, slicing through heavy-duty packaging, or working outdoors, it maintains performance cut after cut.

Design That Commands Attention
Visually, the A7 Zastava is stunning. The contrast between the deep black blade and the reddish-brown wooden inlays is immediately eye-catching. The aluminum frame isn’t just for looks—it keeps the knife light and agile, ready for rapid deployment.

The Serbian Red Wood inlays are more than an aesthetic nod; they also add a warm, textured grip surface. Cold metal can be slippery in certain conditions, but the wood adds tactile assurance without sacrificing elegance.

Deployment: OTF at Its Finest
The out-the-front (OTF) mechanism is the heartbeat of this knife. With the push of the button lock, the blade rockets into place with a satisfying click. The return action is just as smooth, allowing for rapid retraction.

OTF knives are loved by professionals for their speed and one-handed operation, and Tekto’s execution here is excellent—solid, consistent, and dependable.

Real-World Use: Not Just a Display Piece
While the A7 Zastava could easily sit in a display case and be admired for its beauty, it’s clearly designed for real work. Over several days of testing, here’s how it performed:

• Box Breaking & Packaging: Clean, precise cuts through cardboard, tape, and plastic without fraying edges.
• Outdoor Rope & Cord: The spear point pierced and sliced paracord with minimal effort.
• Camp Cooking: It handled vegetable slicing and meat trimming with finesse, despite not being a kitchen knife.
• General Utility: Everything from paper cutting to light wood shaving was quick and easy.

The combination of blade geometry, premium steel, and ergonomic design makes this knife a reliable daily carry.

Comfort & Ergonomics
The handle’s contouring fits naturally in the hand, and the aluminum frame keeps it feather-light without feeling flimsy. The balance point sits comfortably toward the middle, making it feel nimble during precise tasks.

The wood inlays not only look fantastic but also prevent the “all-metal cold grip” feeling you get with some knives in winter. It’s a subtle but welcome detail.

Durability & Maintenance
The A7 Zastava doesn’t demand much in the way of upkeep, but a little care goes a long way:

• Cleaning: A quick wipe after use keeps debris from affecting the OTF mechanism.
• Lubrication: A drop of light oil every so often ensures smooth deployment.
• Sharpening: While S35VN holds its edge well, when it does need sharpening, use a diamond or ceramic sharpener suited for premium steels.

Given proper care, this knife could last decades—aging gracefully along with its wooden accents.

The Emotional Side of Ownership
There’s something special about owning a tool that’s tied to a larger historical narrative. If you have a connection to military history, the A7 Zastava will feel more than just functional—it’ll feel personal. Each time you deploy the blade, you’re holding a little slice of that M70 heritage.

It’s the kind of knife you could gift to a fellow enthusiast knowing it’s not just “another knife” but a story in steel and wood.

Pros & Cons
Pros:
• Premium S35VN steel blade with titanium coating.
• Unique Serbian Red Wood inlays—no two knives alike.
• Smooth, fast OTF deployment with secure button lock.
• Lightweight yet strong aluminum frame.
• Striking design rooted in military history.

Cons:
• Higher price point than entry-level OTF knives.
• OTF legality varies by location—check laws before carrying.
• Wood inlays, while beautiful, require light care to preserve finish.

Final Thoughts: The Best of Both Worlds
The Tekto A7 Zastava OTF is proof that you can combine heritage and high performance in one knife. It’s a tool you can rely on in the field, yet elegant enough to display in your collection.

For those who want a blade that tells a story, honors a legacy, and performs like a modern masterpiece, this knife checks every box.

You can find more details and purchase the A7 Zastava OTF directly from Tekto Knives’ official website.